Buses connect most areas although to fully explore the islands a car is recommended.
Most islands can be visited on a day trip by ferry. It’s a 50 minute drive to Toft, where you can take ferries to the north isles of Yell, Unst and Fetlar. Fair Isle, Foula and Papa Stour can also be visited by small plane from Tingwall Airport near Lerwick.
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular on the quiet roads but beware of the hills and headwinds and dress appropriately!
We can help you plan your visits and advise that you book inter-island ferries during busy periods. Don’t leave visits to the outlying islands until late on you trip. It’s not unknown for weather to close in resulting in unexpected overnight stays on Fair Isle or Foula.
Weather can impact on travel arrangements and we recommend that you have travel insurance to cover unexpected delays, cancellations and additional overnight stays.